The Common Security and Defence Policy

Since the late 1990s, EU member states have committed themselves to deeper and more structured military cooperation, within the framework of the ESDP/CSDP. At the same time, European defence budgets have shrunk and military capabilities reduced. This chapter analyses the evolution of European military cooperation and identifies its key drivers and the changing strategic context to Europe’s east and south. The chapter argues that the emergence of a credible EU military capability will depend both on developing new defence synergies and on investment in critical military capabilities and infrastructure. Above all, however, it requires greater political cohesion and a common European strategic culture. Elements of a shared strategic culture have emerged, but substantial differences remain among EU member states. The chapter concludes by highlighting the crucial role of Europe’s major states in fostering defence and security cooperation, particularly the UK, France, and Germany.